For Every One – written by Jason Reynolds

   For Every One – written by Jason Reynolds, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon and Schuster, 9781481486248, 2018

Format: Hardcover

Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5

Genre:  Poetry

What did you like about the book?  Renowned author Jason Reynolds puts the feeling of dreaming into beautifully composed verse.  Though originally performed verbally at  the Kennedy Center, none of the power seems to have been lost in the textual translation; Reynolds utilizes the blank space of his pages fully to allow the few words or sentences  achieve a greater impact by giving the reader literal space to think and reflect.

The idea of addressing readers as “dreamers” is certainly not new; Shel Silverstein will likely be on the forefront of minds from “If you are a dreamer come in” in his collection Where the Sidewalk Ends.  Reynolds takes this familiar territory and turns it sideways, presenting the possibility and even the likelihood of failure for most dreamers.  His inspirational chapters remain riveting due to this realism as he reveals that his story is more about courage than accomplishments.  Reynolds presents a very timely speech in a readily accessible form for everyone.

Anything you didn’t like about it?  My only worry is that this slim book will be overlooked in poetry sections so librarians should be sure to display it when possible (National Poetry Month, Black History Month, graduation time, etc.).

To whom would you recommend this book?  This is a great read for both teens and adults as it offers solace and solidarity for anyone who has dreams or doubts, effectively reaching everyone who has lost the blissful naiveté that comes with childhood.  This could easily be recommended to anyone looking for a kind, inspiring book.

Who should buy this book? Teen library collections (public and school)

Where would you shelve it ? Poetry (811.6)

Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? This is a highly recommended piece, especially on those days when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Melissa McCleary, Pembroke Public Library, Pembroke, MA

Date of review: April 20, 2018